The Gunnedah Liquor Accord has adopted a number of initiatives to curb alcohol-related violence and anti-social behaviour in the area.
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The terms, under Section 134 of the Liquor Act 2007, were implemented in mid-November, with a disciplinary committee formed to support the initiatives.
A standard barring policy has been introduced – if patrons are associated with an alcohol-related incident they will be asked to appear before the committee who will then decide if they are to be barred from all venues, if deemed serious enough.
In late 2013, the accord introduced the “1 Punch = 1 Year” program, which sees anyone who displays aggression towards another patron or staff member, or is involved in an assault, banned from the venue for a year – the new terms ensure all members support this campaign.
Members of the accord have agreed to “not sell shots designed to be consumed rapidly after 10pm on all nights”, as well as not sell “doubles” or “mixed alcoholic energy drinks” after 10pm.
“Ready to drink” beverages containing an alcohol volume content of more than 6 per cent will not be sold at any time and students (18 years and over) wearing their school uniform will not be sold alcohol unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Venue staff have also been asked to cease the service of alcohol 15 minutes before closing time on all nights.
No clothing, jewellery or accessories of outlaw motorcycle-related organisations are to be permitted on licensed premises and accord members are to promote and display the “wearing of colours is not permitted in this venue” poster.
Venues will also be required to display “fail to quit resources” from the Office of Liquor, Gaming and Racing, which outline the requirement for patrons, who are ejected or refused entry for being intoxicated, violent or disorderly, to leave the vicinity of the premises.
Members will also be educated on the crime scene preservation guidelines outlined by NSW Police.
Local establishments have also agreed to implement a communications process between venues to aid in the reduction and awareness of alcohol-related violence.
The accord’s drive to cut back on alcohol-fuelled incidents has so far been successful, with the number of occurrences dropping considerably.
NSW Parliament passed the Liquor Legislation Amendment (Statuatory Review) Bill 2014 this week, with additional sanctions to apply, resulting in serious penalties for licensees and their staff if caught selling liquor to a minor.
The bill states, “a first offence may result in the licence being suspended for up to 28 days”, but “can not be ordered unless the Secretary, Trade and Investment has provided the licensee with an opportunity to make submissions as to why the licence should not be suspended”.
A Gunnedah Liquor Accord spokesperson said it will not tolerate minors attempting to purchase alcohol and remind anyone under 18 they are not welcome on licensed premises without a parent or guardian.
“The accord also reminds patrons to drink responsibly over the Christmas period and thanks the community for its support in 2014,” the spokesperson said.